People more important than politics, says Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama says he does not mind missing out on meeting Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during his visit to Australia.

Tibet’s spiritual leader is in Sydney for five days and has already met with Opposition Leader Brendan Nelson.

He will also meet Immigration Minister Chris Evans because Mr Rudd and his deputy will be overseas by tomorrow.

The Dalai Lama says his main goal is to meet the people.

“Public meeting, public interaction, that’s the most important [thing],” he said.

He also told journalists he is optimistic about future talks with the Chinese Government and says he does not believe there will be trouble next week when the Olympic torch relay travels through Tibet.